Engineering (General)
Engineering is a broad category that encompasses a wide range of jobs. In general, engineering jobs involve developing, producing, testing, or maintaining new products or technical solutions that meet specific requirements. Engineers may work in one of many specialist areas such as:
- Construction
- Automotive or aerospace
- Mechanical
- Medical instruments
- Computer hardware
- Electrical equipment
- Chemical manufacturing
Education and Career Opportunities in Engineering
Most people beginning an engineering career hold at least a bachelor's degree in an engineering specialty. Many engineering jobs require a graduate degree in engineering. Licensure is required if you want to work directly for the public. Engineering professionals need to keep up with rapid changes in technology through continued education. Chances of advancement to managerial or senior technical engineering jobs can be improved through taking professional certification.
The three areas of engineering that employed the largest number of engineers in 2008 were:
- Civil engineers
- Mechanical engineers
- Industrial engineers
The strongest areas of employment for engineers in the decade 2008-2018 are expected to be in consulting services and research and development. Biomedical engineers have a particularly strong employment outlook, with growth of 72 percent projected to 2018. The highest earning engineering jobs are in petroleum engineering--earning a median salary of $108,910 in 2009.
Check out the engineering degrees at colleges near you and online degrees in engineering to find out how you could launch your engineering career.
Virginia College Online continues the tradition ofgiving lives new direction, fulfilling our mission statement tostudents wherever they live and offering the chance to pursue adegree while maintaining commitments to work and family.- AAS - Network Engineering
Turn your talent for design or technology into a viable career at the Academy online. You'll learn from experienced industry pros and gain valuable real-world knowledge. You'll complete your coursework 100% online, at the times and places that fit your schedule. And you'll get the skills and confidence you need to succeed. - Associate of Science in Building Information Modeling
